Some of the most talented young football players in Airdrie are moving on to the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL)

About a dozen members of the Airdrie Raiders Midget Football team have signed with the Calgary Colts of the CJFL, not long after they claimed the Division 3 City title.

"I'm very happy, and very happy for the kids," said Head Coach Steve Kemp. "I think if we had another four more games, I think we'd continue that momentum."

The Raiders won the Division 3 playoffs after finishing the 2017 season with a 0-6 record.

Players signing with the Colts for the first time include Harley Harwood, Deklyn Walsh and Liam McDougall, while others like Bennett Thomson and Brayden Vandermeer are returning for another season.

Kemp says it's always an honour to see his players move on in their careers.

"Their goal is to keep playing and we're just happy that we could have been a part of it. It's really their hard work and their attitude that's got them there. We're almost like proud parents when we see them go."

With football continuing to grow in Airdrie at many levels, Kemp isn't surprised that the Colts turn to Airdrie to fill their roster.

"I've been involved with [football] for ten years now, you'd have one, maybe two a year going and moving on. Now it seems like the whole team, that's their focus, is to learn and get better and continue playing at a higher level."

The Calgary Colts begin the 2017 season on August 12th when they take on the Edmonton Wildcats.

Questions, comments or story ideas? Email us at news@discoverairdrie.com